Journalists Urged to Provide Accurate Reports on the 2025 General Election
By SPC -Journalist, Dodoma
The Deputy Minister for Information, Culture, Arts, and Sports, Hamisi Mwinjuma, has emphasized the importance of journalists providing accurate reports on the 2025 General Election, which will involve the election of Councillors, Members of Parliament, and the President.
He made these remarks today, February 14, 2025, while closing the annual national broadcasters' conference in Dodoma. The two-day event was organized by the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA).
The Deputy Minister stated that he believes the training has equipped journalists with valuable professional knowledge, particularly in ensuring the accuracy of information as the country prepares for the 2025 General Election.
The media is extremely important as we approach this year’s general election, and if you fail to provide accurate information, you may contribute to the downfall of democracy,” said Mwinjuma.
He further urged journalists to remain impartial and ensure the public is well-informed, enabling citizens to make informed choices when electing their preferred leaders.
Additionally, Mwinjuma stressed the importance of using proper Kiswahili in broadcasting to preserve and promote the language, cautioning against its misuse.
“The correct use of Kiswahili in media is essential. We must protect our language from degradation and ensure it is spoken fluently and correctly,” he stated.
He also reassured the media sector of the government's support, emphasizing that the Ministry’s doors remain open for collaboration. He reiterated President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s commitment to strengthening the industry, citing her decision to lift bans on previously suspended media outlets as a testament to her dedication to press freedom and media growth.
The Acting Director General of the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA), Engineer Andrew Kisaka, also emphasized that journalists must be careful when reporting election news and avoid exaggeration.
He further urged media houses to ensure balanced airtime for all candidates, ensuring fair coverage and equal opportunities for all political contenders.
Kisaka stated that TCRA initiated these conferences to foster the growth of the broadcasting sector and enhance professionalism in media reporting.
The theme of this year’s conference was "The Role of Broadcasting Media Towards the 2025 General Election."
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